Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

News Release

ATF and U. S. Attorney Conduct Violent Crime Initiative Training For 20 Plus State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies

CHICAGO — An advanced training seminar for state and local law enforcement investigators from more than 20 agencies was held today announced Andrew L. Traver, Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); United States Attorney Stephen R. Wigginton, Southern District of Illinois; Assistant United States Attorney Dee Dee Durborow Southern District of Illinois; and Larry A. Washington, Resident Agent in Charge ATF Fairview Heights Field Office. The instruction was presented through classroom lectures and practical exercises.

ATF is a law enforcement organization within the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). ATF is dedicated to the reduction of violent crime, prevention of terrorism, and protection of our nation. ATF investigates and prevents crimes that involve the unlawful manufacture, sale, possession and use of firearms and explosives; acts of arson and bombings; and illegal trafficking of alcohol and tobacco products. ATF regulates the firearms and explosives industries from manufacture and/or importation through retail sale. We screen and license entities that engage in commerce in these commodities, and specify the form and content of their business records.

ATF uses partnerships in all aspects of our regulatory, law enforcement, training, and forensic mission areas. Our partners include industry groups, professional organizations, international, Federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, other federal and public safety agencies, academia, and the communities we serve. We work closely with all our partners to achieve our mutual goal of reducing violent crime and protecting national security. We rely on industry’s support and participation to maximize our effectiveness to prevent violent crime and work with industry to minimize regulatory constraints that hinder legitimate business.